Bose 301 IV Manual

The Bose 301 IV is a bookshelf speaker system designed for high-fidelity stereo sound reproduction. It features Bose's proprietary Direct/Reflecting technology, a 8-inch woofer and a 1-inch tweeter, optimized crossover network, and a stylish wood-grain vinyl enclosure. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Connections 6. Connecting to Audio Systems 7. Optimal Placement 8. Care & Maintenance 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Direct/Reflecting speaker design, 8-inch woofer, 1-inch tweeter, gold-plated binding posts, removable grille, and wood-grain vinyl enclosure.

Feature	Description
Direct/Reflecting Technology	Combines direct and reflected sound for spacious stereo imaging
8-inch Woofer	Provides deep, accurate bass response
1-inch Tweeter	Delivers clear, detailed high frequencies
Gold-Plated Binding Posts	For secure speaker wire connections
Removable Grille	Cloth grille for protection and aesthetics
Wood-Grain Vinyl Enclosure	Durable finish resistant to scratches
Optimized Crossover	Ensures smooth transition between woofer and tweeter
Wall-Mount Capable	Includes keyhole slots for optional mounting
Impedance	8 ohms nominal
Power Handling	Up to 150 watts per channel

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface or mount on wall.

Choose location: Place speakers at ear level for optimal sound.
Connect speaker wires: Strip insulation, connect to amplifier/receiver terminals.
Secure connections: Ensure positive/negative terminals match on both speaker and amplifier.
Position speakers: Follow placement guidelines for best stereo imaging.

WARNING! Ensure amplifier is turned off before connecting speakers to prevent damage.

First-Time Setup

Connect speakers to your audio system and power on.

Connect to amplifier: Use 16-gauge or thicker speaker wire for best performance.
Check polarity: Match "+" and "-" on speaker to amplifier terminals.
Power on system: Turn on amplifier at low volume initially.
Test sound: Play audio source to verify both speakers are working.

CAUTION! Do not exceed recommended power handling to avoid speaker damage.

Specifications

Type: 2-way bookshelf speaker system.
Woofer: 8-inch (200 mm).
Tweeter: 1-inch (25 mm).
Frequency Response: 45 Hz - 20 kHz.
Nominal Impedance: 8 ohms.
Power Handling: 10-150 watts per channel.
Sensitivity: 90 dB SPL at 1 meter with 1 watt input.
Crossover Frequency: 2.5 kHz.
Enclosure: Bass-reflex design.
Dimensions: 15.75" H x 10.25" W x 8.75" D (400 x 260 x 222 mm).
Weight: 15.4 lbs (7 kg) each.

Controls and Connections

Speakers have no active controls; all adjustments are made through connected amplifier/receiver.

Connections: Gold-plated binding posts accept bare wire, spade lugs, or banana plugs (U.S. models).

Amplifier Settings: Adjust volume, balance, tone controls (bass/treble) on your audio system for desired sound.

Connecting to Audio Systems

Connect to stereo receiver, amplifier, or home theater system.

Turn off all equipment before making connections.
Strip speaker wire: 1/2 inch (12 mm) of insulation.
Connect to speaker: Insert wire into binding post holes or use connectors.
Connect to amplifier: Match left/right channels and polarity.
Secure connections: Tighten binding posts firmly.

Tip: Use equal-length speaker wires for both channels to maintain balance.

Optimal Placement

For best performance with Direct/Reflecting technology:

Place speakers at ear level when seated.
Position speakers 6-12 inches from rear wall for enhanced bass.
Angle speakers slightly inward toward listening position.
Ensure speakers are at least 3 feet apart for stereo separation.
Keep speakers away from corners to avoid excessive bass.
For wall mounting: Use keyhole slots and appropriate hardware.

WARNING! Do not place speakers near heat sources or in direct sunlight.

Care & Maintenance

Clean with dry, soft cloth only. Do not use liquids or chemical cleaners.

Grille Care: Remove grille by gently pulling from corners. Vacuum lightly if needed.

CAUTION! Do not attempt to repair speakers yourself. Contact authorized service.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules. Copyright © Bose Corporation. All rights reserved. Bose and the Bose logo are trademarks of Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose Customer Service.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No sound from speaker	Loose connections	Check speaker wire connections at both ends; ensure amplifier is on.
Distorted sound	Overdriven amplifier	Reduce volume on amplifier; check power handling limits.
One speaker not working	Wire polarity or channel issue	Swap speaker wires to test; check amplifier balance setting.
Weak bass response	Placement issue	Move speaker closer to wall; check room acoustics.
Speaker buzzing	Electrical interference	Keep speaker wires away from power cables; check ground connections.

Service: For technical support, contact Bose Customer Service at 1-800-999-2673 or visit www.bose.com.